22-year-old Gabbi Garcia has always been vocal about standing up against body-shaming. For example, in August 2021, she called out body-shamers on Twitter and asked for some much-needed "character development" from bashers:
Gabbi Garcia on the importance of speaking up against body-shaming
"I've been very vocal about body-shaming ever since I became an adult. Ever since I was exposed to the topic, I became really vocal and I'm really outspoken about it," Gabbi told Cosmo.ph during an interview with Summit Media journalists. "The previous year and this year has been such a struggle for most of us. And I don't think body-shaming would even help kahit little percent yan. We've all had our adjustments when it comes to...you know, pre-pandemic and [the] pandemic. And I think one of the biggest factors is our bodies."
"And it's more of...it's not only coming from me. I'm also protecting my followers who read my comments on social media. We're not aware na maybe, pati sila natatamaan. Maybe that comment will send out a negative outlook for the people who are reading the comments on my Instagram. And I can't take that sitting down."
Gabbi added, "Life now is hard for most of us, let's not make it harder. Once you know naman that you're on the right path, let's try to call out each other also in a very good way—in a very non-toxic way. We all deserve to live a peaceful life, especially now. 'Wag na nating dagdagan."
Such inspiring words! Back in 2018, Gabbi also shared an encouraging body-positive post on Instagram, saying: "Whenever I post swimsuit photos, people would always bully me for my body. Well, guess what!! Yes, I have no boobs, I'm flat-chested + I have my own fair share of stretch marks. And I don't see anything wrong with it. If your definition of being 'sexy' doesn't fit with my body type, well then sorry, but I LOVE MY BODY. And nobody deserves to be bullied just because of your body. We are all beautiful in our own way! #NoToBodyShaming #LoveYourBody"
In 2020, Gabbi talked about overcoming her insecurities growing up morena, detailing how she lost commercial gigs to lighter-skinned models. "At first I was so insecure na parang, 'Bakit ganun? Wala bang spaces, wala bang spot for, like, Pinay beauty?'" Gabbi shared. "So growing up, iyon talaga iyong sinabi ko. Especially when I entered the industry, sabi ko, 'I will not change my skin color. I will love my skin."
***
We're officially on Viber! Be part of our growing community and subscribe to Cosmopolitan Philippines now!
